Alliance for Water Stewardship in California's Central Valley
Fertile soil, mild weather, and long growing season allow California to produce nearly half of the United States' vegetables, fruits and nuts, and approximately 80% of the world's almonds. The state's agriculture industry is an economic powerhouse, valued at $46.4 billion and generating at least $100 billion in related economic activity. Underpinning all of these successes is one precious ingredient: water. California is in the midst of a multi-year drought, -the worst in 1200 years, and according to climate scientists, this is just the beginning. Hardest hit is Central Valley, a large, flat region that is home to some of the country's most productive agricultural areas. Here, WWF is helping businesses use the Alliance for Water Stewardship (AWS) to earn recognition for existing water improvements, identify gaps and risks, and connect with others who use shared freshwater resources (WWF Description).